Boulder Farmers' Market

Tuesday, March 22, 2011 1:00 AM

Boulder Farmers Market..."We Grow What We Sell"

Experience Boulder like a local. The Boulder Farmers' Market has become a weekly ritual for Boulderites. Established in 1986 by a handful of local farmers looking to sell farm-fresh produce directly to the public, the Boulder Farmers' Market is now the largest in Colorado. As a grower-only market, shoppers are guaranteed the best selection of locally grown, seasonal produce, eggs, cheeses, meats, herbs, flowers, wines and gourmet food products available in Boulder County, most of which is organically or naturally grown/produced. They also get to meet and learn directly from the farmer how their food was grown, when it was picked, how to keep it fresh and in many cases, get new ideas on how to prepare and enjoy it.

The Saturday Farmers' Market opens at 8:00 a.m. Serious foodies and local chef's shop early to get the best selection, especially during the summer when the leafy vegetables, corn and Colorado grown fruits arrive. The outdoor food court is a popular meeting place for breakfast and lunch. The combination of freshly brewed coffee, baked goods and a variety of prepared foods by local chefs together with live music and shaded seating provides a place to relax and hook up with friends before or after shopping at the market. Market vendors stop selling at 2:00 p.m. sharp, except in the Food Court, which continues serving until 2:30 p.m.

The Wednesday afternoon market starts up at 4:00 p.m., when 13th Street becomes fully shaded. In addition to the regular produce, gourmet food products and the Food Court, the Wednesday Market now includes a beer and wine garden featuring Colorado wines and local craft beer. Open only a few years now, the beer and wine garden has become one of Boulder's most popular mid-week social events.

As if this wasn't enough reason to visit the Boulder Farmers' Market, a fine arts and crafts fair featuring 25 jury-selected artists and artisans is held one Saturday each month in Central Park adjoining the Farmers' Market. This highly competitive market attracts some of Colorado's best artists and crafts people. It's the perfect place to find that unique gift or memento of your visit to Boulder.